When thinking of masterfully crafted and engraved arms we often look to names of the past, such as Boutet, Nimschke, or Alvin White, as if it is an art lost to time. This knife pistol by the father and son duo of Bruce and Brian Bump however, is a prime example that crafting fine arms is not only an art that is alive and well, but thriving. This is a piece that is a true testament to the fact that there are master craftsman among us to this day, capable of producing fine arms that are every bit as functional and beautiful as those legendary makers of the past. This pistol and knife combination is an original design by Bruce Bump, who has been a Mastersmith in the American Bladesmith Society since 2003, and is well known for his stunning blade work, as well as other knife/gun combinations of his own design. This design specifically was awarded "Best Collaboration" at the 2021 International Custom Cutlery Exposition, and Bruce's work has been featured in "Greatest Living Knifemakers" by Shackleford and "Modern Custom Knives: The Great Collections" by Darom. Bruce's son Brian has been engraving professionally since 2014, combining his passions of studying native plants and wildlife with his industrial arts creativity, winning many awards and accolades as an active member of the Firearms Engraving Guild of America. The pistol and knife themselves are a beautifully matched pair, with the knife being holstered on the right side of the pistol and the grip of the knife forming the right grip of the pistol. The knife is held in place by a strong magnet and two guide studs, leaving it easy to be drawn or securely in place with the grip matching up perfectly with the pistol depending on the situation. The pistol is made of hot forged 416 stainless steel and features masterfully executed full coverage engraving by Brian Bump. The most prominent feature being a rattlesnake coiled around the entire pistol, its head and fangs revealed under the right grip when the knife is drawn. The rattlesnake has been beautifully inlaid with gold and rose gold, accenting the distinctive pattern of its scales, as it appears ready to strike at a whiptail lizard which is inlaid with green gold. The remaining space is filled with masterfully executed floral and scroll engraving with some of the plants on either side just above the grips also featuring multicolored gold inlays. The pistol is fitted with blade and notch sights and takes a .32 caliber ball and standard musket caps. The 5 inch blade on the folding bowie knife is of Bruce's own pattern welded Damascus steel and is marked "Bruce D. Bump/M.S." on the right ricasso with engraved fittings matching the pistol. The pistol and knife have matching sambar stag grips with matching engraved inserts, the knife having the right grip and the pistol the left. The set is complete with a handmade artfully distressed oak case with iron fittings, the lid lined in black silk, and the removable tray fitted and lined in claret baize with an engraved "SIDEWINDER" plaque. Included in the case is a double eagle powder flask, cleaning rod, wrench, balls, and rod tips. Also included is a certificate of authenticity from Bruce Bump explaining the details of the pistol and knife and signed by him.

Excellent as masterfully crafted by artisans Bruce and Brian Bump, showing a bright stainless steel finish and gold inlays overall and crisp engraving. The grips are also excellent showing a very attractive artfully aged appearance. The case shows an attractive distressed look on the exterior with the interior and accessories showing only the slightest wear. A truly stunning work of art from two of the most talented craftsmen of our day!